When selecting throw pillows for a bed, the size is an important factor to consider. The right sized pillows can help complete the look of the bed and make it more inviting and comfortable. There are a few guidelines to follow when choosing throw pillow sizes for beds.
Standard Bed Pillow Sizes
There are a few standard pillow sizes that are commonly used on beds:
- Standard – 20″ x 26″
- Queen – 20″ x 30″
- King – 20″ x 36″
- Euro – 26″ x 26″
The standard pillow size is the most versatile and can work well on twin, full, queen and king sized beds. The queen and king sizes are better suited for larger beds, providing more coverage and visual balance. Euro sham pillows are square shaped and lend a more modern, streamlined look.
Recommended Number of Throw Pillows
In general, the recommended number of throw pillows for a well-dressed bed is:
| Bed Size | Number of Throw Pillows |
|---|---|
| Twin | 2-4 pillows |
| Full/Double | 4 pillows |
| Queen | 4-6 pillows |
| King | 6-8 pillows |
This is just a general guideline, you can add more or fewer pillows depending on your personal preference and style. The key is to have enough pillows to create visual interest but not overload the bed.
Throw Pillow Arrangement
How you arrange the throw pillows on the bed is also important for both form and function:
- Place two pillows in front against the headboard to lean against while sitting up in bed.
- Layer the pillows with larger back pillows and smaller front pillows for depth and dimension.
- Use a mix of patterns and solids for visual interest.
- Balance the pillows on both sides of the bed.
- Try different heights, sizes and shapes for variety.
- Leave enough space to sleep comfortably.
Avoid overcrowding the bed with too many pillows. Make sure you have room to get in and out of bed easily. Place the pillows you don’t use for sleeping at the foot of the bed or store them away at night.
Pillow Insert Firmness
The firmness of the pillow inserts you choose will impact comfort and support:
- Soft: Best for stomach sleepers. Allow the head to nestle into the pillow without arching the neck.
- Medium: Provide a balance of comfort and support for most sleep positions.
- Firm: Give the most support to back and side sleepers to keep the spine aligned.
Using pillows with different firmness levels can accommodate individual preferences for couples. Just make sure both people can find a pillow with the right comfort and support for their sleep position.
Pillow Insert Fill Types
There are several common types of pillow fill materials to consider:
- Down: Luxurious, soft and lightweight. Molds to the head and neck. Needs regular fluffing to maintain shape.
- Feather: Affordable, cushy and compressible. Retains more heat than down.
- Memory Foam: Slowly conforms to the shape of the head and neck. Provides pressure relief. Can retain heat.
- Shredded Memory Foam: Light and airy version of memory foam with more breathability.
- Latex: Responsive support and bounce back. Hypoallergenic and antimicrobial. Stays cool.
- Microfiber: Affordable, soft and durable. Maintains shape well and is easy to care for.
- Polyester: Light, budget-friendly and easy to wash. Less durability than other fills.
Consider your budget, preferred firmness, sleep position and tendency to sleep hot when selecting pillow inserts. Testing out different fills can help determine what feels most comfortable for your individual needs.
Pillow Covers
Using decorative pillow covers is key for both style and hygiene. Some tips for pillow covers include:
- Choose covers made from soft, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen or rayon from bamboo.
- Look for covers with hidden zippers for a seamless look.
- Select machine washable covers for easy laundering.
- Use different textures like velvet or corduroy for visual interest.
- Play with patterns and prints to complement your bedding.
- Change covers seasonally to refresh your bedroom style.
Having extra pillow covers makes it easy to frequently launder them to keep pillows fresh and clean. Encase pillow inserts in washable covers before placing them in decorative covers.
Tips for Choosing Throw Pillows
Here are some helpful tips for selecting the perfect throw pillows for your bed:
- Measure your bed – This determines how many pillows you’ll need for the right fit.
- Get the right size – Standard 20″ x 26″ pillows work well for most beds.
- Determine proper firmness – Pick soft, medium or firm based on your sleep position.
- Consider breathable fills – Down, feather or latex allow more airflow than foam.
- Use different shapes – Square, rectangular, round and bolster pillows create interest.
- Mix and match – Vary colors, patterns, prints and textures for a layered look.
- Incorporate color – Add some colorful pillows to brighten up neutral bedding.
- Change it up – Swap pillows seasonally to refresh the look.
- Fluff regularly – Plump pillows daily to maintain shape and loft.
- Wash covers frequently – About every 1-2 weeks for hygiene.
Conclusion
Choosing the right size, firmness, arrangement and number of throw pillows can take your bed decor from basic to beautiful. Standard sized pillows around 20″ work well for most beds. Aim for around 2-8 pillows depending on mattress size. Test different fills and firmness levels for the comfort and support you need. Mix in various prints, patterns and textures for visual appeal. And don’t forget to fluff and wash those pillows regularly so they look their best!
